Surgical Procedures for Preterm Labor and Delivery

In rare cases,
preterm labor
is due to inadequate connective tissue in the cervix, which allows the cervix to open too early. One option to treat this weak tissue is cervical cerclage. In this procedure, your doctor stitches a band of strong thread around your cervix to help hold it closed. You will be given anesthesia to numb the area or to put you asleep during this procedure. The band is removed at 36-38 weeks of pregnancy to allow for normal delivery.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.